Putin Joins Assad at Military Base in Syria. December 11, 2017
AMMAN (Reuters) - Syrian President Bashar al Assad said the continued presence of Russia’s major naval and air bases in his country help counter the influence of Western powers in the region as the battle to crush insurgents was winding down.
In an interview with Russia’s Ministry of Defence TV channel Zvezda on the fifth anniversary of Moscow’s intervention in Syria that tipped the conflict in his favour, Assad said Russia’s two main bases were important to counter the West’s military presence in the region.
“This global military balance needs Russia’s role ..this needs (military) bases..we benefit from this,” Assad said adding Syria needed such a presence that his military commanders say countered Washington’s dominance in the region.
Alongside the Hmeimim base, from which Russia launches air strikes in support of Assad, Moscow also controls the Tartus naval facility in Syria, its only naval foothold in the Mediterranean, in use since the days of the Soviet Union.
Read more ....
More News On Syrian President Assad
Assad praises Russia’s role in stabilising Syria -- Middle East Monitor
Assad says Russian bases in Syria help keep balance of power -- CGTN
Assad counting on Russian bases to counter America's dominance -- Sydney Morning Herald
ReplyDeletePutin saved assad's bacon now what does he want in return?
2:27 a better question would be "What does Assad have to give"?, anything he might have Putin could take with little effort. At best Assad would be expected to give a free hand to Russian operations and any diplomatic cover that is required. But you're right, Putin will want something.
ReplyDelete